Fishing in the Karoo

Quiet Waters, Big Rewards – Fishing in the Karoo

The Karoo might be best known for its wide horizons and arid beauty, but hidden among its hills and plains are tranquil dams, rivers, and reservoirs that offer surprisingly rewarding fishing experiences. Fishing in the Karoo is about more than just the catch – it’s about peace, solitude, and the slow rhythm of nature that this vast semi-desert region offers in abundance.

You won't find roaring rapids or deep ocean swells here. Instead, you’ll discover quiet farm dams and rivers where the silence is only broken by birdsong or the splash of a fish rising. Many guest farms and lodges in the Karoo have well-stocked dams teeming with bass, carp, and even trout in higher altitude areas, making them a favourite for casual anglers and dedicated fly-fishers alike.

This is fishing stripped back to its essence – no crowds, no noise, just you, your rod, and the big Karoo sky. The region is also a great place to introduce kids to fishing, thanks to its easy access spots and calm waters. After a morning on the water, you can enjoy a Karoo picnic or head back to your farmstay for a braai under the stars.

For those in search of a unique, off-the-beaten-path angling adventure, the Karoo delivers. It’s remote, it’s beautiful, and it reminds you what fishing is really about: patience, quiet joy, and a deep connection to nature.